Things to do in Zao

No. 3 of Ski Resorts in Miyagi Prefecture

Miyagi Zao Shiroishi Ski Resort

Miyagi Zao Shiroishi Ski Resort is located in Shiroishi, Miyagi Prefecture, Japan. It is located at the southern foot of the Zao Mountain Range, about an hour's drive from downtown Sendai, and has convenient transportation. The ski resort features gentle terrain and a variety of snow trails, suitable for family tourists and beginner to intermediate skiers. In winter, there is abundant snow, and the natural powder snow-covered ski slopes provide stable and comfortable sliding conditions for skiers and snowboarders. There is a small practice area suitable for children in the ski resort, and it is equipped with a ski school to provide basic teaching services. Visitors can also try snowshoe hiking and explore the surrounding forest snow scenery. The mountaintop observation deck overlooks the Zao Mountains and the Pacific Ocean in the distance, adding a natural view to the enjoyment of skiing. Surrounding facilities include hot spring hotels and Japanese restaurants, where visitors can experience the local hot spring culture after exercise. This area has become an ideal choice for winter leisure in the region with its balanced facilities and natural landscape.

Frost-covered Trees in Zaō Mountains

The Zao Hydrangeas, located in Zao Town, Katata District, Miyagi Prefecture, Japan, are a natural wonder unique to winter. Cold air and humid monsoons meet in the coniferous forests, causing layers of snow to adhere to the surface of the trees, forming a variety of ice and snow sculptures, which the locals vividly call "Snow Monsters". These icy trees stretch along the undulating mountains, presenting a visual effect of silver and dark blue in clear weather, making them an ideal location for photography enthusiasts. Visitors can take a cable car to get a panoramic view, or choose to walk to observe the texture details of the icy trees up close. After nightfall, the lighting installation renders the snow-covered forest into a fantastic colorful world, creating a completely different viewing atmosphere from that during the day. The Zao Hydrangeas are not only a natural work of art, but also a popular destination for winter tourism, showing the unique charm of nature.

Michinoku Lakeside National Government Park

2026 Asia 50 - Ski Resorts

Zao Onsen Ski Resort

Zao Onsen Ski Resort is located in Zao Onsen Chemical Factory in Yamagata Prefecture. It has a number of ski trails of varying difficulty and is suitable for skiers of all levels to experience the feeling of speeding on the snow. In the cold winter, you can see the spectacular hoarfrost scene in the snow field. After a day of skiing, you can also soak in a natural hot spring to relieve fatigue.

Funaoka Castle Ruins Park

Zaō Fox Village

Zaō Fox Village is located in Shiroishi, Miyagi Prefecture. It is home to over 100 foxes, including silver, blue, and arctic foxes. Visitors can get up close with the foxes, feed them, or pet them. Zaō Fox Village is home to not only hundreds of foxes but also other cute animals, such as rabbits, ponies, and sheep, making it a perfect spot for a family outing.

Shiroishi Castle

Shiroishi Castle was a branch of the Date Clan Masamune of the Sendai Domain, and it was also the residence of the Katakura Clan for generations. It survived until the Meiji Restoration era, when Emperor Meiji ended the Edo shogunate's rule and the castle was abandoned due to Emperor Meiji's order to abolish the castle.

Roadside station Murata

Sportsland SUGO

No. 2 of Ski Resorts in Yamagata Prefecture

Zao Liza World

Zao Liza World is located in Kaminoyama City, Yamagata Prefecture, Japan. It is a resort famous for skiing and winter activities. This ski resort is located in the beautiful Zao Mountains and is surrounded by magnificent natural landscapes, providing visitors with a peaceful and vibrant winter paradise. The ski resort has ski slopes of different levels, suitable for ski enthusiasts of all levels. The resort provides ski equipment rentals and professional ski lessons to ensure that visitors can enjoy skiing safely and happily. In addition to skiing, Zao Liza World also provides snow hiking activities, allowing visitors to explore the beauty of nature in the white snow. The resort has complete facilities, and visitors can enjoy warm dining services and taste local delicacies after skiing. Convenient transportation and friendly service make Zao Liza World an ideal winter holiday destination, providing visitors with an unforgettable travel experience.